Defense adjusts to new players

Secondary lost multiple standouts

Shortly after Robert Steeples, Cannon Smith, Akeem Davis and Mitch Huelsing completed their eligibility last season, one could say the secondary became a primary concern for University of Memphis defensive coordinator Barry Odom.

When the foursome departed, they took with them 35 combined starts and, in Davis’ and Huelsing’s cases, four seasons each of experience.

As the Tigers began their fourth week of spring practice Tuesday at the Murphy Athletic Complex, the development of the defensive backfield continued to mostly favorable reviews.

Cornerback Bobby McCain and safety Lonnie Ballentine return to battle for their starting positions, but have been joined by a group that includes converted linebacker Reggis Ball, converted running back Derrick Bobo, Missouri transfer Tavon Bolden, junior college transfers Anthony Watson and Fritz Etienne (who missed last year with a knee injury) and veteran Bakari Hollier.

“We have some young guys coming in who still need plenty of work,” said Tiger coach Justin Fuente.

Ball, brother of former Tiger Marcus Ball, has been impressive at his new position.

“His skill set is pretty good for moving from where he played last year at outside linebacker to safety,” said Odom. “He played some there in high school so it wasn’t completely foreign.

“If you make a mistake in the back end it’s really magnified. So the discipline, the fundamentals, and the habits that it takes every snap must be there. It’s a whole different world. But through nine spring practices I’m excited by what he brings to the table.”

Fuente said what has endeared Ball to them is the passion he has for the game.

“It means something to him,” Fuente said. “It’s important to him that he does a good job.”

Fuente said McCain, a two-year starter, has been valuable as another instructor, particularly helping the inexperienced cornerbacks understand their responsibilities.

Odom said the loss of veteran safeties Smith and Huelsing has created a sense of urgency. During the spring, Etienne, Dion Witty, Bobo and Bolden have worked at safety, in addition to Ball.

“Lonnie is about the only guy at the safety position with any game experience,” Odom said. “He’s been out for a few practices (with an injury) so we’ve gotten some inexperienced guys some reps, which has been great. We can use as many days as we can get with those guys.

“But the most important thing for those guys on the back end, communication-wise you have to be on the same page whether it’s corners, safeties or underneath cover guys.”

McCain said he’s liked the play of several of the cornerbacks, including Chris Morley from Plantation, Fla., and Andrew Gaines from Blinn (Texas) Community College.

“They didn’t get as much playing time as they wanted, but this year I think they’ll be expected to play a lot,” McCain said. “Morley is coming on, he’s learning the techniques.”